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Amy M.

December 14, 2016

I am ... A Survivor

I had cerebellar stroke last April. I thank God every day that my husband and son reacted as quickly as they did. We live in a very rural area in Nebraska. My husband took me to our local hospital, which with in minutes decided that I needed more advanced care than they were equipped for. I was loaded and taken to the nearest major hospital 45 miles away. After many test, MRI’s and CT scans they confirmed that at the age of 37 I had a blood clot that had gone to my brain. I was admitted to the PICU and told that I would have a long road ahead of me. I have always seen myself as a fighter, so the fight was on. I have two sons ages 15 and 7 to get home to, not to mention my husband, and my parents. I am also a teacher and can’t imagine not being able to see “my kids” everyday. I was only in the hospital for 48 hours! I went home and was told to start therapy as soon as I felt comfortable, so I call the next day to set it all up. I did PT and OT every day for several months, (since I couldn't go to work ☹) I did speech therapy a few days a week.
Since having the stroke I have finished my Masters in Education in Curriculum and Instructional Leadership, become a Google Certified educator and was able to start the school year with my students. I teach 5th and 6th grade science and reading. I have taught my student the warning signs, what to do and the challenges I face now.
I have tried to get my community involved in different stroke awareness activities, but there has been little to no support. There isn't even any support groups around the area, so reading the stroke smart magazine and facebook is my support.
8 months strong!!!

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